The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has embarked on an ambitious project to expand the Njoro Ndogo canal in Mata, Taita Taveta. This two-kilometre extension, funded at a cost of Sh8 million, promises to enhance agricultural output in the region, benefiting over 5,000 fruit and vegetable farmers in Taveta subcounty.
Agriculture Executive Erickson Kyongo hailed the project as a critical step towards ensuring food security in the region. “The future of agriculture is in irrigation. This extension project will greatly improve the output, subsequently ensuring food sustainability and economic empowerment,” Kyongo stated. The expansion is expected to significantly increase the efficiency of water distribution to farmers, supporting the cultivation of maize, vegetables, and fruits in Taveta, which is renowned for its agricultural productivity.
Taveta is one of the Coast’s leading food baskets, with farmers depending on water from various canals to maintain their crops. The Njoro Ndogo canal expansion is part of a broader initiative to enhance food production and address food insecurity in the region. “We want to utilise all avenues to increase food production. More interventions are being put in place to curb food insecurity,” Kyongo added.
The project aligns with the county’s ongoing efforts to improve agricultural practices and promote food security. FAO’s county programme officer, Abedih Mbatha, emphasized the importance of the expanded canal in reaching all farmers in the area. “The expanded canal will ensure that water reaches all farmers, thereby enhancing productivity. In addition to this project, we are also extending the Msau/Rahai Canal and constructing a check dam in Rong’e Ward and a water tank in Bura Ward to support irrigation and boost food production,” Mbatha noted.
Jonathan Mulinge, a local farmer, expressed optimism about the impact of the irrigation projects. He urged fellow farmers to collaborate with the contractors to ensure the timely completion of the construction. “These irrigation projects will greatly bolster food production in our dry areas. It’s crucial that we work together to ensure these projects are completed as planned,” Mulinge said.
The FAO’s initiatives are set to transform the agricultural landscape of Taita Taveta, enhancing food security and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of farmers in the region. With continued investment in irrigation infrastructure, the future of agriculture in Taveta looks promising, paving the way for a more sustainable and food-secure future.
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